EPSRC Studentship in Image-Based Fracture Mechanics |2021-2022 Scholarships Grants

This studentship covers the cost of home student fees and provides an annual tax-free stipend at the standard UK research rate (Â£13,726 in 2013/14).

Supervisors: Dr M Mostafavi & Dr R A Tomlinson

Digital Image Correlation (DIC) has received much attention in recent years as a powerful technique to measure full-field displacement with precision. It breaks down digital images of a surface of a component into subsets and measures their deformation by comparing the location of each subset before and after loading. The full displacement field can then be used to calculate stress and strain fields of the component surface.

The application of DIC in fracture mechanics, in particular, is becoming popular in safety sensitive industries (e.g. aerospace) as a way to detect cracks and measure their population, lengths and opening displacements. By measuring such parameters directly from the surface of the components, criticality of the cracks can be assessed.Â However, a hybrid digital image correlation and finite element technique allows us to extract more useful information, such as energy release rate, from the measured displacement field.

This project is aimed at developing an integrated digital image correlation and finite element approach with a focus on fracture mechanics and includes carrying out fracture tests, analysing DIC data and modelling experiments. The project is designed in close collaboration with a DPhil project at the University of Oxford and is the continuation of a recent research theme.

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Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will have a first or upper second class UK honours degree (or equivalent) in mechanical engineering, materials science, physics or mathematics. A strong background in finite element theory and application is essential and familiarity with Matlab (or Python) would be beneficial.

Further Information

Applications from overseas students are welcome but they will be required to obtain their own funding to cover the difference between fees at the home and overseas rates (approximately Â£13,000 per year).

Applications will be considered as and when they are received and this position will be filled as soon as possible, but the latest date for considering applications will be 1st January 2014.

Any questions concerning the project can be addressed to Dr Mahmoud Mostafavi (m.mostafavi@sheffield.ac.uk).

To apply, pleaseÂ click on the ‘Apply’ button below. PleaseÂ include your CV and two references and indicate on your form that you are replying to this advert.